reviews

2017 Acura ILX Walk Around

The ILX is fairly handsome. It might not turn heads, but it won’t turn stomachs, either. It’s got some sharp edges, down low at the bottom of the front fascia, and the rockers along the side below the doors. Its front bumper is V-shaped, following the V of the grille, and looks like a pointed chin. The flat black plastic surrounding the round foglamps is dull and awkward. The 18-inch 10-spoke wheels are unique, kind of like 10 legs with big feet on them, and look like they should be moving (not like they are moving) when they are standing still. They look better moving, because then they’re a blur and you can’t see how ugly they are.

Interior

The instrument panel isn’t as sporty as the rest of the car; it’s very basic, with a spare look to the plastic and vents, and a straightforward interface. We’d like a bit more glamour, and wish there were more color and originality in the materials, although they are of good quality, and the fit and finish is very good. Things are laid out neatly and comfortably, ergonomically, intuitively. It’s easy to operate the controls without taking your eyes off the road. Except for the infotainment system, and that’s a sore point.

The refinement and quietness is good, with fairly thick glass and standard active noise cancellation system that absorbs small but annoying sounds from the powertrain or road. It uses the sound system’s speakers, a cabin microphone, and a sophisticated processing algorithm.

The front seats are supportive and very adjustable for the driver, although the front passenger seat needs height adjustment. Lower, that is, as headroom is tight, while still being a bit more than rivals. In back, surprisingly there’s enough leg room and knee room for six-footers.

The overall interior space is impressive, with plenty of room for small personal items. Unlike in the frustrating Audi A3, there are well-planned bins and cubbies everywhere. The 12.4-cubic-foot trunk can hold two large suitcases, or a large cooler, or even a wheelchair. The split rear seatbacks can be flipped forward for access to the trunk with extended space.